Welcome to the Nihongo Lesson feature. We strive to give you useful manga-based Japanese language tips and maybe even a glimpse into the translation process. This week's lesson will close out 2015 in style with some terms about the end of the year. It's been a long year of lessons, but chances are you've picked up a tip or two. Hopefully 2016 is even better!

NENMATSU (ねんまつ)

NENMATSU literally means "the end of the year." I'm not exactly sure when this period of time starts, but I can say for sure that we're currently in it! Just like in the U.S., things are busy at the end of the year in Japan. The traditions are different, but when family get-togethers are involved, there's a lot to prepare!

SHOUGATSU (正月)

SHOUGATSU or OSHOUGATSU is a word that represents the new year, particularly the first three days of the year. Japan has many traditions for this time of the year, including visiting shrines and eating delicious foods. Kids look forward to receiving OTOSHIDAMA, a gift of money they get from their relatives.

AKEMASHITE OMEDETOUGOZAIMASU
(あけましておめでとうございます)

Nobody can blame you if you don't remember this phrase from last year's lesson, but it's the polite
form of "Happy New Year!" If you're in Japan, you might hear this phrase nonstop on the first day of
the year!

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